As I've gotten older my eating habits have changed, hopefully for the better. I was always told breakfast was the most important part of the day. It wasn't until my adult years that I understood a morning meal is what jump starts your metabolism. After that it's best to eat something every three hours. I try to follow this pattern by starting with oatmeal or pancakes in the morning. Around 10:00 a.m. I eat a banana or orange.

My noontime meal consists of a sandwich, soup or salad. By 3:00 p.m. my stomach rumbles and it's time for another snack, often a yogurt or granola bar. I definitely notice my body slowing down during the late afternoon hours so nutritious snack is important to rejuvenate my body. At 6:30 p.m. I eat a full balanced meal with my family and then might follow up with a snack around 8:00 p.m.

What I've discovered with this pattern of eating is that it's okay to consume foods throughout the day. It's key to keep those snacks healthy and complement them with lots of water and moderate excercise.